Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
In match play, a concession is a player's clear decision to give the opponent the next stroke, the hole, or the entire match. A conceded stroke counts as holed, so the opponent does not need to play it. A concession is final and cannot be declined or withdrawn.
How it matters in match play
Concessions are specific to match play and can settle a stroke, hole or match without further play. The next stroke may be conceded before it is made; a hole may be conceded before it is completed, even before it starts; and the match may be conceded before its result is decided. The concession must be clearly communicated and is final.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Concession |
| Category | scoring |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf, Rule 3.2b(1) |
| Related concepts | Match Play, Conceded Stroke, Conceded Hole, Conceded Match, Gimme |
Worked example
Alex leads Ben 2 up with 2 holes left; Ben concedes the 17th hole, so Alex is 3 up with 1 to play and wins the match because the lead exceeds the holes remaining.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf, Rule 3.2b(1)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Can a player concede a putt in match play?
Yes. A player may concede the opponent's next stroke before it is made. The opponent is treated as having holed that stroke, and the ball may be picked up.
Can a concession be withdrawn?
No. Under Rule 3.2b(1), a clearly made concession is final and cannot be declined or withdrawn.
Can you concede a hole before it starts?
Yes. A hole may be conceded any time before it is completed, including before the players start it. Players must not agree to exchange concessions simply to shorten a match.
Does a concession apply in stroke play?
The Rules of Golf concession provision is for match play. Stroke play is settled by each player's score for the round, not by one competitor conceding another player's stroke or hole.
How must a concession be communicated?
It must be communicated clearly, either verbally or by an action that clearly shows the intention to concede the stroke, hole or match. An ambiguous gesture can create a rules issue.
Can a player concede the whole match?
Yes. A player may concede the match any time before the result has been decided, including before the match starts.